Taking dogs into pubs, cafes and restaurants in Ireland

On many previous visits to Ireland we have found that dogs have not been allowed inside any establishment that served food. However, I understand that the law may have been relaxed recently. Can anyone advise me what the current situation is concerning taking dogs into pubs, cafes and restaurants, please? Thank you.

The law has indeed been repealed on the restrictions on dogs being allowed into food preparing businesses in the Republic of Ireland!

Domestic pets will be allowed to enter restaurants, cafés, and pubs, once permission is granted by the food business operator or proprietor.

However, access by domestic animals is prohibited to food premises or parts of food premises where food is prepared, handled or stored, which may be applicable to premises such as kitchens, supermarkets and shops.

Have you made any plans to come over and see us on the island of Ireland soon?

Thank you very much, Martin. The situation sounds as though it is now very similar to that in the UK, with the individual businesses making the decision about whether or not to allow dogs in. I assume, therefore, that many pubs and cafes are already advertising themselves as 'dog friendly'. We would always ask, anyway, before entering with our dog. I may email some our regular haunts and check their policies before our holiday.In answer to your question, yes, we have all our plans in place for another visit to West Cork and Kerry later this year. This will probably be about our twelfth holiday in the ROI in the past 20 years or so.

The next time you are visiting the Emerald Isle with your dog you might consider touring the Causeway Coast and Glens region along the northern coast of Northern Ireland. There are quite a few accommodation properties that welcome dogs and plenty of opportunities to enjoy outings with your dog whilst on holiday. The area has loads of places to walk your dog off road, whether it be in one of the many forests in the region, or along the beaches and coastal paths.

There are quite a few restaurants and pubs that have seating areas outside where your dog is welcome and a small number of places welcome your dog inside. There are Dog Friendly Food Tours in Portrush. The tours are a fun way to walk your dog in the company of other dog owners. The tours have been created as a light hearted, fun, friendly and informative activity, taking in the local dog friendly establishments in the area, meeting some of the locals, and enjoying food and drinks as you go.

I hope you have a lovely visit to Kerry and West Cork later on this year!